Before cutting anything.... try some "Show Sheen" to detangle your horses mane and tail. Spray it on until the hair is well soaked. It works best as it dries. It works great! You might have to pick out a lot of the burrs, but they should slip out pretty easily. Also, try using a wide tooth brush and comb. Good luck.

That happened to one of my mares a few years back. It took me hours to get them all out. You could try using some baby oil to soften the burrs up so they come out easier. Work from the end of the hairs back toward the horse.

It seems even if there is only one cockle burr plant, the horses will find it and decorate their mane and tail with burrs! lol

Thanks Darkstar... :) lol...... your right my horse looked like she had a bun between her ears! I ended up getting the burrs out with some Show Sheen and lots of patience! I'll keep your idea in mind for next time.

A cost saving tip for those of you who use show sheen, buy a bottle of hair conditioner (human type) from your local store, mix with water to a ratio of 4 parts water to 1 part conditioner and then put it in a spray bottle. It works just as well if not better than the more expensive show sheen.

I recently acquired a colt with many burs and "dreadlocks" in his mane and tail. I thought FOR SURE I'd need to roach it. I was at my local farm & feed purchasing some grain when I saw some Mane & Tail detangler. It's a spray bottle, and I paid about $8 for it. After an hour and a half, and a little elbow greese, I FINALLY got the mess taken care of. Here are the "before and after" photos.